De Gea’s impressive performances have attracted interest from Real Madrid and the Spaniard is a contender for the PFA Player of the Year award, but Seaman told Sky Sports the Chelsea ‘keeper is better.

“For me it’s Courtois,” the former England international said. “He’s been solid and shown his class. At Chelsea you don’t get a great deal to do [as a goalkeeper], but when he’s been called on he’s been fantastic.”

Seaman was quick to heap praise on De Gea but admits his early days at United helped make his decision easier.

“De Gea had a really dodgy start, but he’s shown his character and he’s now showing everybody why Manchester United bought him. He’s a quality keeper who makes some fantastic saves.”